An annual report released last month by the Institute of International Education (IIE) shows that Kalamazoo College continues to rank among the nation’s top colleges for study abroad opportunities thanks to student participation.
The Open Doors Report surveys more than 2,000 institutions, including doctoral universities, master’s colleges and universities, baccalaureate colleges, associate’s colleges and special focus institutions, and ranks K 18th among baccalaureate colleges with 233 students studying abroad in 2021-22. The college also ranks 10th among baccalaureate institutions nationally for the number of students who went abroad in the same year.
K students choose from 53 study abroad programmes of varying length and focus in 33 countries on six continents for three, six or nine months. The ventures allow students to challenge their assumptions about themselves and other cultures in a rigorous experiential education environment.
“It is exciting to see the College’s strong study abroad ranking in the Open Doors Report, as it reflects the strength of our global programs, our commitment to international immersion, and our dedication to worldwide partnerships,” said Margaret Wiedenhoeft, executive director of the Center for International Programs. “This is a solid performance, especially considering that programmes were still affected by COVID-19 travel restrictions during the period studied. We’re proud that our faculty and staff remain resolute in continuing our long-standing tradition of ensuring that our students have an overseas experience.”
Kalamazoo College study abroad students outside a school in Spain
Kalamazoo College study abroad students pose in front of the main building of the Universidad de Extremadura in Caceras, Spain. Photo by Resident Director Victoria Pineda.
IIE publishes the Open Doors Report annually through the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. Founded in 1919, IIE is a private, nonprofit leader in the global exchange of people and ideas, working with governments, foundations, and other sponsors to create study and training programs for students, educators, and professionals in all fields. These programmes include the Fulbright Programme and the Gilman Scholarships administered for the Department of State.
